Catching Up with First Responder Therapy Dog Mayzie

It has been a fun and eventful month for our sponsored first responder therapy dog Mayzie! Check out the video below to see Mayzie in action, and find out her favorite way to eat her 3 Bears dog food!

In late February Mayzie made a visit to the Northern California State Parks Dispatchers and their trainees. They work hard 24/7 to keep everyone who visits the state parks in Northern California safe, as well as the Rangers, Lifeguards, Fish and Game wardens, and K9 teams.

She also did some training at Lowe's in preparation for the Tahoe Knight Monsters Hockey First Responder Appreciation Weekend games. Gradual and repeated exposure to loud noises with positive reinforcement helps ensure that therapy dogs can do visits in different environments. Making sure they are comfortable and neutral in many places with different sounds is key to being a successful team. Mayzie wasn't bothered by the large and loud saw, and happily ate her Grandma Lucy's cookies.

First Responder Therapy: Supporting an EMT Class doing their skills finals

Mayzie recently visited the Sacramento State Prehospital Education Class EMTs on their NREMT skills finals testing day, bringing much-needed comfort and encouragement. After nine weeks of intense training, the students faced the added stress of final exams, and Mayzie’s presence provided a welcome relief. As she entered, she was met with cheers and sighs of relief from anxious students awaiting their turn to demonstrate critical life-saving skills. Her calm energy helped turn nervous expressions into smiles, easing tensions in the high-pressure environment.

First responders often endure immense stress, which can lead to long-term mental health challenges, but therapy dogs like Mayzie make a significant impact. Studies show that therapy dogs help reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) while increasing oxytocin, promoting relaxation and emotional connection. As the EMT students tackled their rigorous assessments, Mayzie reminded them that support—whether from a loyal dog or their community—is always within reach. A huge thank you to EMTs and all first responders for their dedication and hard work—your community appreciates you more than you know!

A huge thank you to EMTs and all first responders for their dedication and hard work—your community appreciates you more than you know!

Rainbow Kids Pediatric Urgent Care – Therapy Dog Support Healthcare Workers & Young Patients

 Mayzie also recently visited Rainbow Urgent Care, a dedicated pediatric urgent care center in Folsom, California, bringing smiles and comfort to young patients and healthcare workers alike. As she made her rounds, she provided much-needed emotional support to children, helping ease their anxiety during what can often be a stressful experience. But it wasn’t just the kids who benefited—nurses and doctors also enjoyed a moment of joy, taking a break to pet and interact with Mayzie. Therapy dogs like her play a crucial role in reducing stress, boosting morale, and creating a sense of calm in medical environments.

During the visit, Mayzie and her mom also donated a copy of the First Responder Therapy Dogs children's book and coloring book to the office, spreading even more cheer. We can’t wait to see the kids' colorful creations and hope they enjoy the book! Thanks to Mayzie’s presence, everyone at Rainbow Urgent Care—patients and staff alike—felt a little more relaxed and ready to face the day.

Decompressing with 3 Bears Dog Food

Mayzie’s ability to bring comfort and joy to others starts with the nourishment she receives at home. Her owner swears by 3 Bears Dog Food, which provides her with the high-quality nutrition she needs to stay healthy and energized for her therapy visits. Along with her Top It supplement, Mayzie enjoys her meals in a way that makes them both fun and beneficial—one of her favorites is having it frozen on a lick mat! This serves as a perfect decompression treat, keeping her engaged, happy, and relaxed after a busy day of spreading love. With 3 Bears Dog Food, Mayzie stays strong, healthy, and ready to brighten more lives with every visit.

Celebrating Mayzie’s 7th Birthday Party with a visit to Foothill Dog Rescue

On her 7th birthday, Mayzie paid it forward by raising $700 for Foothill Dog Rescue, helping to save more shelter and rescue dogs like her. Six years ago, this incredible organization saved her life, and ever since, she and her mom have supported their mission whenever possible. We are beyond grateful for their dedication to rescuing dogs—over 5,000 and counting! Huge appreciation for their amazing fosters who make this possible.

Please join us in wishing a Happy 7th birthday, Mayzie! 🎉🥳 Her kindness, love, and wagging tail bring so much joy to everyone she meets. Wishing you a day filled with belly rubs, tasty treats, and all the love you give right back to the world!